Recovery is a marathon, not a sprint from "summary" of Wasted by Marya Hornbacher
Recovery, as I have come to understand it, is not a quick race to the finish line. It is not a short burst of energy that propels you forward and then suddenly fizzles out. No, recovery is a long and arduous journey, much like a marathon. It requires endurance, patience, and a willingness to keep putting one foot in front of the other, even when the road ahead seems never-ending. In my own experience, I have found that recovery is not a linear process. It is full of twists and turns, ups and downs, successes and setbacks. Just when you think you have finally made it to a stable place, something comes along to knock you off course. It can be frustrating and disheartening, but it is all part of the journey. One of the key lessons I have learned is the importance of pacing oneself. In a marathon, you cannot sprint the entire way and expect to reach the finish line. You must conserve your energy, listen to your body, and know when to push yourself and when to take a step back. The same is true in recovery. It is essential to find a balance between pushing yourself to grow and heal and giving yourself the time and space to rest and recharge. Another crucial aspect of the marathon of recovery is the support and encouragement of others. Just as runners in a marathon rely on the cheers of spectators and the camaraderie of their fellow competitors to keep them going, those on the path to recovery need a strong support system to lean on in times of need. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your struggles and believe in your ability to overcome them can make all the difference in the world.- The journey of recovery is about progress, not perfection. It is about taking small steps forward each day, even if they seem insignificant at the time. It is about embracing the process, with all its challenges and triumphs, and trusting that as long as you keep moving forward, you will eventually reach a place of healing and peace. So, lace up your shoes, take a deep breath, and remember that recovery is a marathon, not a sprint.
